Raphinha has outlined his commitment to Brazil but stressed he wants to play injury-free for the national team and Barcelona.
The 29-year-old received criticism in his homeland when he suggested he had spoken to Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti and they had agreed to manage his minutes during the upcoming international friendlies with Japan and Singapore.
But the Barca forward insisted he was not prioritising club over country and was simply explaining he has to look after his body.
Speaking to the media in Singapore, a visibly emotional Raphinha paused before saying: “At that moment, when they asked me the question and I answered, I thought I was being clear in what I wanted to say; at least in my head it seemed to me that I was. Taking into account everything I have been through in the last three international call-ups, with three injuries practically in the same area of the leg, what I meant was, simply, that I had to take care of myself. Obviously, I don’t want to get injured again. I want to be available not only for the national team, but also for Barcelona.”
The former Leeds man added: “From the first time I put on the national team shirt I have always made my willingness to be here very clear. I never resigned from the Brazilian national team and I always did my best to be present. Sometimes, I haven’t been able to come, but I’ve always done everything in my power to be here and wear the Seleçao shirt. For me, it has always been an honour and a privilege, and always will be. That’s not going to change, regardless of how long I’m here.”
Brazil barbs stung, admits Raphinha
Raphinha admitted he had been stung by the criticism back home.
“We are human beings and, no matter how hard we try, some things affect us,” he said. “It’s natural. Anyone in my place, receiving criticism knowing that they are giving everything, would be affected. We have to be prepared for criticism, defending Brazil is something very big.”
Raphinha will win his 43rd cap for Brazil tomorrow and wear the captain’s armband but warned he would step away from the national team if he felt he could no longer perform to his best level.
He said: ”Unfortunately, when we are not physically well we cannot play either here or at the club. I also said that, if my body allows me, I will always give my best. When I see that I can’t physically perform, I’ll be the first to retire, because I’m very critical of myself.
“Yes, what I said had a bad impact, although at the time I thought I had explained it well. But it’s part of the game unfortunately.”
Brazil boss Ancelotti sticks up for captain Raphinha
Ancelotti has no doubts over Raphinha’s commitment and gave a glowing assessment of his captain ahead of the game with Japan.
He said: “I know the players want to play for the national team and I don’t need to say anything to them to get them out there competing.
“Brazil is the greatest national team in the world and the fans will be right behind us in every match and will support us. It’s different in other countries.”
Raphinha has been in blistering form for the Blaugrana this season with 15 goals in 11 La Liga games having been moved into a number nine position by Hansi Flick. He helped his side establish a three-point lead over Real Madrid heading into the international break. They return to Liga action a week on Sunday with a home game against Villarreal.
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